EA Restructures BioWare, Focusing Solely on Next Mass Effect Game

Electronic Arts (EA) has announced a restructuring of BioWare, the studio behind the Dragon Age and Mass Effect franchises. This restructuring involves reassigning a number of developers to other EA projects and concentrating all remaining resources on the upcoming Mass Effect game.

In a blog post, BioWare general manager Gary McKay explained that the studio is using the time between major development cycles to reassess its operational structure. He stated that the current Mass Effect development phase doesn't require the entire studio's workforce. Many BioWare employees have been transitioned to other suitable roles within EA. A smaller number of Dragon Age team members have had their positions terminated, though they've been offered the opportunity to apply for other internal roles.

BioWare's organizational structure has undergone significant changes in recent years, including layoffs in 2023 and several high-profile departures, most recently director Corinne Busche. The exact current employee count at BioWare remains undisclosed. While EA declined to provide specific numbers regarding the impact of the restructuring, a spokesperson confirmed that the studio is now fully focused on Mass Effect following the release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. They emphasized that the studio is appropriately staffed for the current stage of Mass Effect development.

The new Mass Effect game, announced four years ago, is still in its early stages. BioWare's current strategy prioritizes focusing on one game at a time. This involves shifting developers between projects as needed; some who previously worked on Mass Effect were temporarily assigned to Dragon Age to ensure its completion and are now returning to the Mass Effect project. Veteran developers Mike Gamble, Preston Watamaniuk, Derek Watts, and Parrish Ley are leading the Mass Effect development.

This announcement follows EA's recent revelation that Dragon Age: The Veilguard fell short of player expectations by approximately 50%, leading to a downward revision of the company's fiscal year guidance. EA's Q3 earnings call is scheduled for February 4.